If you have lived in Central Ohio for any length of time, you have likely noticed a persistent white film on your shower doors or stubborn spots on your clean dishes. These are not signs of poor cleaning habits. Instead, they are the telltale symptoms of the local water supply. At 1-800-Plumber +Air of Columbus, we help homeowners navigate the challenges of local water quality with professional treatment solutions that protect your plumbing and improve your daily comfort.
Does Columbus, Ohio, Have Hard Water?
The short answer is yes. While the City of Columbus does a great job of treating and “softening” water at municipal plants before it reaches your home, our water still typically qualifies as moderately hard.
What Is Hard Water?
Hard water is water that contains high concentrations of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium. As water travels through the limestone and bedrock common in the Ohio landscape, it picks up these minerals.
Water hardness usually averages around 120 parts per million (ppm) in Columbus, which is roughly 7 grains per gallon. While the city reduces these from much higher raw levels, even “moderately hard” water leaves its mark over time. You might notice:
- Scale buildup: Crusty white or green deposits on faucets and showerheads.
- Soap residue: A “scum” that forms in tubs and sinks because soap does not lather well with minerals.
- Irritated skin: Dry, itchy skin and dull hair caused by mineral film.
- Dingy laundry: Clothes that feel stiff or look faded after just a few washes.
What Hard Water Does to Plumbing, Appliances, and Your Comfort
Hard water can be a problem for your skin, and it can damage your home’s plumbing. When hard water heats up, the minerals turn into a rock-like scale. This scale builds up in your pipes, blocking water flow and eventually causing clogs or requiring professional repiping.
Dishwashers and washing machines also have to work harder to clean with hard water. Hard water doesn’t build up a lather with soap as easily as it does with soft water. Water-using appliance parts wear out much faster due to the need for them to work harder. Your water heater is particularly at risk. Mineral deposits collect at the bottom of the tank, creating an insulating layer. This forces the unit to use more energy to heat the water. This extra effort leads to higher utility bills and a shorter lifespan for the appliance.
Water Treatment Solutions Available for Columbus Homeowners
Installing a dedicated water treatment system is the best way to safeguard your home. At 1-800-Plumber +Air of Columbus, we provide a variety of water treatment options designed to meet the specific needs of your household.
Whole-Home Water Softeners
Whole-home water softeners use a process called ion exchange to replace calcium and magnesium with “softer” ions. This ion exchange stops scale buildup before it enters your pipes, keeping your water gentle on your skin and plumbing.
Filtration Systems
Filtration symptoms are great for those looking to improve more than just hardness. We offer Activated Carbon and Reverse Osmosis filters solutions. Filtration systems can remove impurities like chlorine, lead, and pesticides, significantly improving the taste and safety of your drinking water.
Every home is different. Our team uses professional water testing to identify the exact mineral and contaminant levels in your supply. This allows us to install a tailored solution that provides the best long-term results for your property.
Improve Your Home’s Water Quality With Trusted Local Professionals
You do not have to settle for dry skin and failing appliances. 1-800-Plumber +Air of Columbus is your dependable partner for expert water treatment. We are available 24/7 to handle any plumbing crisis, but we prefer helping you prevent those crises through proactive maintenance and high-quality installations. Contact us today for a professional solution to water hardness in your home.
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